P5 (c2>S 
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LoS^: A Drama. -L. 



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Lod-: A Drama, -i-, 



W^ t? V V 




LOST. 



.A. idi^la^im:^^ 



IN FOUE ACTS, 



—BY- 



/ 



DAWSON A. BLANCHARD. 



COPYRIGHT. 



!f am ©il!j|iin$^ Jin. 

630. MULLER, PKTNTEH, 50 BIENV1LI.E ST., N. O. 

1886. 




:^ 




1 31 IIM 



3 t 



^ 



LOST 



-^ TDJPL^P^IS/LJ^ 



IN FOUR ACTS, 



DAWSON A. BLAXCIf \R1). 



tJOPYKKiHT. 






V 



O^-WASHIN'S 



GEO. MiiLi,i:i:, ihintkr, 50 Bienville .st., n. c. 

1886. 



"^c:. 






Kiitorcd aiconlius to Act of Congress, iu the year l><S(i. by 

DAWSON A. BLAN'CHARD. 

Ill tlic- oBico of the J-ibrariau of Congress, at Washiu''ton. D. C. 



LOST. 

ACT I. All Intelligence Office -A Den. 
ACT II.— Public Park— The Widow's Home 
ACT III.— The Fairniount Picsidence. 
ACT IV.-A Prison— The Rescue. 



CHARACTERS. 

1. Jack Haxly the Unknown. 

2. James Standish a s-entleman. 

:i Mk. Squires of the Intellisence Office. 

4. Mr. Fairmount a rich old man. 

5. Bill Crookshanks a low character. 

<■>. (Sam a hunch back. 

7. Officer Dick Policeman. 

S. Kate Thornhill a dutiful daughter. 

'.). Mrs. Thornhill . . Kate's mother. 

10. Mrs. Fairmount the rich man's wife. 

Captain of police, turnkey, servant and pedestrians. 



LOST. 



A DEAIMA IN FOUR ACTS. 



SYNOPSIS. 

Tliis jilay is founded on an incidont in real iir<'. Mrs. 
Thonihill, a r('s|K>ctabli' widow, and her ilau.i^litcr Katr liaxc 

conio t(,) live in a large eity. It is ininiaterial to desi^-- 

nate tiie place. 

They are strangers, very ]>oor, and unused to work. The 
daughter, a guileless girl, is foreed by their necessities to go 
I'Ut and seek e)U|)loynient. She ai)])lies for a situation at an 
intelligence oflice. and Mr. Sfjuires, a kind h(vu'tc(i old man, 
is niovcd with |>ity for her and linds her a place. Mr. Stan- 
dish, the conlidential clerk of the estal)lishineiit to whidi 
Kate is sent, falls in love with her. He is tiie nephew of a 
rich lady, whose husband, Mr. Fairjuount, accidentally dis- 
covers he has relatives lU'ar at ha)id. Kate comes in contact 
with Jack Haiily, a fashit)nable looking gent (with aliases i, 
who succeeds in winning her contidence~and she, in an un- 
guard(>d moment, makes him a prcunise, which she afterwards 
fulfills, greatly to her sorrow. 

xA. plot to i"ob the house of Mr. Fairmount is frustrated b.\' 
a half-witted lad (Sam), and Jack Hanly takes refuge in Bill 
('rookshanks' den. Kate disappears simultaneously. A 
search is made for her, and by a singular combination of 
events, she is traced to the den and rescued. Her jailor, Jack 
Hanly, is captured, and to escape punishment kills himself. 



ACT I. 

Scene 1 — An hdelUijencc Office. 

Mr. Squires. (A bald-headed man, euttins- a quill.) Dear 
me, how my eye-sight is failing! I must ])ut on my specks 
to do this thing properly ! Plague take the fly ! (Brushing it 
away.) It will rest on my noddle! (Fighting the fly). If it 
wasn't for the looks of the thing, I would wear a wig, just 
out of spite. Ah! I see you, you rascal. (Makes a dash at the 
fly and upsets the inkstand.) There now! I've done it up 
brown ! (Taking up a sheet of paper, all smeared with ink.) 
Oh no! It's all black. (Throws the pa]>er away and wipes 
off" the table.) Well — what a worry this life is anyhow ! Where 
are my specks V (Looks around for them, and examines his 
pockets.) Hang it, if I haven't left them at home. Oh my eyes ! 
What shall I do V (Sits down disconsolately and puts his hand 
up to his brow.) Why, bless me! Here they are— just where 
they ought to be ! That fly ! Where is he ? That fly has 
quite upset me— no, the inkstand I meant. (Adjusts his 
glasses on.) Well, its all in a life time ! (Seemingly amused.) 

Kate. (Enters at that moment, timidly.) Good morning- 
sir ! This is an intelligence office— is it not ? 

Squires. (Has risen, and is very polite.) Yes, miss! What 
can I do for you ? 

Knte. I came to apply for a situation. Can you help me, 
sir V 

Squires. That depends, my young lady. Have you ever 
engaged yourself before V 

Kate. No, sir ! But I am very anxious to do something to 
help mother. 

Squi7'es. To be sure you are, dearie! Come in and tell me 
all about it. Oh, you need not be afraid to trust an old man ! 
Sit down and tell me what sei'vice you would like best. (He 
looks over his records.) 

Kate. Thank you, sir! I scarcely know what 1 am fitted 
for. Cannot you kindly advise me ? 



— G — 

Squires. ^e\\, now, that was nicely spoken ! Let me see ! 
I will call out a number of vacancies I have here, and you 
can indicate to me which is the right one, if anything shoul<l 
happen to suit you. To begin— Teacher ! Governess! Lady's 
maid ! Nurse ! Cook ! Seamstress ! Store clerk !— 

Kate. Store clerk! That will suit me, I think, sir! ('.iii 
you secure it for me ? I would like to try that ! 

SqidreH. Wait a bit! I will see. (Turns over the leaves of 
his record book.) Such places are always in demand ! (Paus- 
ing.) I find there is nothing in that line to-day. But I could 
recommend you as a governess, if you like it -only, you will 
have to go out of the city ! 

Kale. I would like it sir— but I cannot leave mother. She 
would be alone in this great city! 

Squires. That's too bad ! (Reflecting.) Ah ! I have some- 
thing for you after all. I had almost forgotten it! (Fumbles 
in his pocket and produces a card.; Yes— here it is! This 
card was handed to me this morning by Mr. Standish. He 
is the confidential clerk and busines.s man of tlie large linti 
of Siuirks Bros. You know the place? Well— it's a dry goods 
estal)lishment, and tliey want a young lady to look after the 
ribbon department. Of course, references are required. 
Now, how's tliat '? 

Kate. Oh, sir! I am so thankful to you. (She begins to 
cry.) But I cannot offer any reference -we are strangers 
here. (Still crying.; If you will only help me! — 

Squires. Well, don't cry! I didn't say I wouldn't! You 
know I can recommend you myself. You have no one else to 
care for you but a mother ? (Kate signifies assent.) AVell, I 
will care for you some. I will be like a father —no, I beg 
pardon! I couldn't, you know, I am unmarried yet ! I had 
better say, like a brother to you! No— that won't do either! 
I am too old to be your brother. Ahem ! What shall I say ? 
Oh, I can be your uncle! That's better! (Rubbing his hands 
with satisfaction.) Or, you can be my ward! How's that ? 
I know Mr. Standish will be glad of it! Yes— you take this 
card to him with my endorsement and it will be all right. So 
now the matter is settled, eh ! (Again rubbing his hands 
with satisfaction.) 



— 7 — 

Kate. (Seizes his hands.) Oh, sir, you are indeed liind to 
ine ! May heaven bless you for it ! 

Squires. AVell, child! it isn't much to do after all, and I 
am glad to do it for you. Go now and see Mr. Htandish your- 
self without delay, as he may have applied in other quarters. 
And if you succeed, let me hear from you again. Good luck 
to you— Good bye— good luck- good bye. (,As he is speaking 
he is urging her to go— and has dispatched her before she 
(xnild say a word, mucli to his delight -and still rubbing his 
hands.) 

(Laughing.) How I did hustle her out! By George! 
She must think me rude! I couldn't help it, and 
didn't want to see her crying any more. I don't know 
whether she looked prettier in her tears or her smiles! By 
George! She brings back to me a tender recollection. Death 
took her from me, and I have lived since a single and lonely 
man! (Sighing.) Well, here's a chance to do some good! 
Here's a poor and defenseless girl asking for protection, and 
I will do all in my power to help her— 

Good gracious ! I forgot to ask her name! I haven't got 
her address either ! By George! A nice mess I've made of 
it. My ward too— ahem ! (Straightening himself up.) Oh, 
never mind ! I know where I sent her. I will ask Mr. Stan- 
dish!— No, I won't, either!— Ask Mr. Standish my ward's 
name ! Ahem ! After sending her to him on my own recom- 
mendation ! Oh no, that will never do ! I would be putting 
my foot into it deeper, and making myself simply ridiculous. 
I see no remedy for it, except to wait patiently for her return. 
I am sure she will come back again to see her— her sponsor— 
Ahem! (Straightening up.) All in good time, sir! All in 
good time. (Eubbing his hands with satisfaction.) Ah! 
here's another caller! 

HaiiUj. (Enters with a nonchalant air.) This is an intelli- 
gence office, I believe? 

Squires. Yes, sir. (Looking at him critically.) 

Hanlij. I want a situation. What have you to offer ? 

Squ'b-es. It very much depends on your capacity, sir! 

Haitly. Oh, I have the capacity for anything! The com- 
pensation is the only object. 

Squires. Indeed ! And how can I serve you ? 



Hanlij. By heli)inj;' me to get a liviiif-- in the easiest jiossi- 
ble manner. I su[)iiose I liave given you tlie cue now. 

Sfju'u'es. I am not sure of tliat. Please state your business! 

Hanlij. I said I wanted a situation. Wliat have you ,U(tt V 

Squires. (Turning over tlie records reluctantly.) If you 
want to work, I can furnish you a place as coachman- - 

Hanlij. (Peremt>torily.) That wont do! 

Squires. Waiter!— (lardenerl— Runner!— 

Hanlij. Runner! AVhat is that V 

Squires. One who runs after businc^ss for another. In tliis 
case it is a hotel runner who is wanted. 

Hanhj. Well, I think that will suit me very well. Tlie 
board and lodging is, of course, included in the pay? 

Squires. I do not know the conditions. That is l(>ft with 
the employer. I am required only to exact references. 

Hanlij. Give me the address. I will see to the rest. 

Squires. No, sir! That is not the way we do business here. 
If I give you the address, it would presume that I have ac- 
cepted references. There is a fee to pay, also. 

Hanlij. Oh, as for that I can easily settle that mattei-. 
(Puts his hand in his pocket.) How much is it V 

Squires. I cannot accept any money until I know wlio >. lu 
are. 

Hanlij. (Appears i^uzzled.) Isn't my personal api)cai'ancc 
good enough for you V 

Squires. Business is business, sir! Ai)pearances are not 
always taken as guarantees. I am res])onsible to my clients. 

Haultj. Well, I see you don't mean business. I will go 
elsewhere. (Walks away in a sujiercilious numner.) By-bye! 

Squires. (Looks after him in an amused way.) That's 
what I call cheek— imi>udence! He don't mean to do any- 
thing that's honest. I'll bet that fellow is a rogue. (Api)ears 
abstracted.) It does seem to me there is something in com- 
mon between the two who have just been here. Can it be 
possible? Oh no! I must be mistaken! It is absurd to 
think so. Why, the girl told me she had none but a mother 
in this wide world ! And she looked as pure and innocent as 
a new born babe. Bah! It is only fancy. Such things will 
often happen, in a manner we cannot explain. Why should 
I think there was anything in common between this beauti- 



- 9 — 

ful girl and the idle vagabond wlio has just left me ! (Scratch- 
ing his liead as if peri)lexed.) It isn't worth a second tlioiight 
after reflection. They are as different as night and day. But, 
somehow, it struck me all of a sudden. (He walks around 
fretfully.) There is nothing— nothing to justify the thought. 

(At this moment Mr. and Mrs. Fairmount, an old and 
stout couple, come in suddenly and a])i)ear astonished.) 

Mr. Fairmount. Hello, Squires! What's the matter with 
you ? You look like a man who is rehearsing a speech. 
What's the occasion, man V 

Squire.'<. Good morning! Good morning, madam! No, 
not so bad as that, Mr. Fairmount. I was a little perplexed 
just now, at finding two persons of opposite sex, wholly un- 
known to each other, and as dissimilar as two human be- 
ings can possibly be, having some peculiar affinity between 
them. It worried me considerably for a moment, and I was 
trying to understand how such things could happen. Please 
be seated, ma'am ! 

Mr. Fairmount. Is that so. Squires? Well, it is a singular 
coincidence, that I was just now startled by a strange appa- 
rition ! Let me explain. Many years ago I had a sister, who 
married against my wishes. A short while afterward she be- 
came a widow, and was left with one child, a boy, whom I 
have never seen. She married again— I never knew her 
second husband's name— and disappeared entirely from 
sight. I have never been able to trace her up. She may be 
dead ; but the recollection of my poor sister was suddenly 
revived by meeting a man just now, who bore the marks of 
resemblance to her. Had I been able to speak at once, I 
could have satisfied myself on that point. He soon disap- 
peared from sight, and the opportunity was lost. But as it 
may have been only a passing fancy, I quickly dismissed the 
thought from my mind. Your singular remark brought up 
the subject again. But that is not talking business. We 
came here for another purpose. We want to engage you to 
do us a particular service. 

Squires. I am glad of it ! What can it be ? 

Mr. Fairmount. We have no children of our own, Squires ! 
James Standish, my wife's nephew, is too proud and inde- 
l)endent to be patronized by me. He holds a very useful and 



— 10 — 

promising position in business— but I would liuve liked to 
have given him a profession. The young man declines my 
offer. It's without any disparagement to him, you know, 
that I say so — 

3//-.S. Fairmount. James is a great favorite with us, Mr. 
Squires. But, as Mr. Fairmount says, he is a little proud and 
independent— that's all! We don't think any less of him 
for that. 

Mr. Fairmount. Oh no! We rather admire the young 
man's pluck. 

Sqidre.'<. To be sure! It's not often no\v-a-days, that we 
meet with such stuff in a young man. I know the gentle- 
man well— and S))arks Bros, have learned to appreciate 
him too. 

Mr. Fair»t()iiiit. That's true! But we would like to have 
him wholly ours. I see no chance at present to have it so. 
We have determined therefore, to have .S'0»if?f>yrf;/ with us - 
and our choice is now for a young girl. 

Mr >i. Fairmount. A nice young girl, Mr. Squires! Some- 
body we can pet. 

Mr. Fairmount. Yes— somebody we can pet. Tell him, honey, 
what she must be, and all that. 

Alr.^. Fairmount. We want a likely young person, sir! I 
would like to have her tall and slender — I do hate a fat girl ! 
I would prefer a blonde to a brunette; but that does not 
matter so much, if she be amiable and fairly accomidished. 

Mr. Fairmount. Yes— all that is necessary. Our nephew 
is a frequent visitor at our house, and we would like some- 
body to help us entertain him. 

Squire.'i. (Smiling.) Oh, I see! 

Mr.'^. Fairmount. You must be very particular alxnit her 
figure, Mr. Stpiires. 

Mr. Fairmount. Somebody we can pet you know,S(iuires! 

Mrs. Fairmount. We don't mind having her very pretty, 
Mr. Scpiires ! 

(They rise to go, and Squires is scratching his head.) 
Squires. (Perplexed.) Yes ma'am ! I understand ! I will 

try. 
Mr. Fairmoujit. It's a home always, for the right one. 

Squires ! 



— 11 — 

SquireH. A rare chance, sir ! A rare chance ! 
Mr. Fairmoant. Let us hear from you as soon as possible, 
S(iuires! 

(They arc walking out, apparently satisfied.) 

Squireii. Certainly. I will not leave a stone unturned. 
iVfr.s. Fairmoiint. Somebody we can pet, Mr. Squires! 
Mr. Falrmoiiiit. Yes — somebody we can pet, Squires! 
Good day! 

(They go; Squires has bowed them out.) 

SqxireH. (Bewildered.) Great God! What have I bar- 
gained to do? A more difficult task I never undertook before. 
How shall I go about it? Where shall I find this delicate 
(creature — "Somebody we can pet. Squires." Oh Lord! Oh 
Lord ! * * * * By George ! A happy thought ! My ward ! 
Ahem! (Straightening up.) She might be the very one! 
But she may have been accepted by Mr. Standish. If so, 
how can I get her from him ? Here I am now% between two 
fires. By George ! It is rather remarkable that I should 
have sent her to the nephew, and now want her for the uncle ! 
If the old gentleman could see my — my ward— ahem! 
(straightening up again,) there certainly would be some 
hair-pulling between them. These things have come upon 
me so suddenly, that I begin to feel I am getting tangled up 
somehow. Well, I shan't hurry about the matter. In the 

meantime, I will have seen Miss Dang it. If I haven't 

forgotten the name! Ahem! Ahem! Now, how could I 
address her a communication on that subject ? I couldn't 
direct it to my ward. That would never do. Poor girl ! I 
wish it could fall to her lot to be placed in such good hands— 
with such good people. Yes — if I can manage it, my child, 
I will surely do it for you. I will befriend you to the fullest 
extent of my power : and she, who is in heaven, will visit me 
in my dreams again, and give to me her smile of aiiproval. 

(He takes his hat and walks out, when scene changes.) 

Note— The folds will close, representing the front of a street with buildings, to 
enable shifting of scenery in rear. 

Kate. (Api)ears, examining the card received.) I think I 
must be in tlie neighborhood of that store! (Looks round.) 
Yes, there it is over yonder, i Pointing to an invisible place.) 



— 12 — 

How my heart beats! I uiust not appear foolish— but I am 
so dreadfully frightened! iShe ai^pears agitated.) I do not 
think lean hide my agitation, but I must go nevertheless, 
and. make an effort for poor mama's sake. I wonder if Mr. 
Standish is a cross man ? Oh, how I wish it was all over! 
How I wish that good old man was here to lean upon. He is 
surely a friend, and may God bless him for his kindness. 1 
must go quickly, before my courage fails me. It will not do 
to loiter round here. Perhaps I have been noticed already. 
But, supi)ose I fail to get the place— shall I tell mother of 
my ill-luck V I fear if she knew it she would not let m*^ try 
again, and then would have to bear our burden alone. I will 
make the effort, and may Heaven help me to success. (8hc 
walks off resolutely, but droi s her handkerchief.) Exit. 

Hanltj. (Has been looking at her at a distance, and as she 
disapi)ears, advances quickly and i)icks up the handkerchief.) 
Ah! I'm in luck! (Examines it.) Damn it, no! It aint 
worth a copper for material, and there isn't a cent tied u[) in 
either corner! Now, why couldn't it have been a lace hand- 
kerchief—something valuable, that I could have disposed of V 
I'm hard up and must make a raise before night. (Looks 
after Kate.) There she goes— has stopped and gone in. Su]»- 
pose I follow her and see what's up? Here's a chance to 
si)eak to the girl ! I will go right to her and return the hand- 
kerchief. Something muy turn uj) for me yet! (He walks 
away rapidly, just as Mr. and Mrs. Fairmount appear.) 

Mr,s. Falrmouut. (Blowing.) We ought to be- close by— 
to the place. Dad ! I wish we were there. I'm almost out— of 
breath. 

Mr. Fairmount. ^Helping her on.) Yes honey— it only 
wants a few steps more. (Looking forward with evident 
alarm.) My God! Here comes a mad horseman! Quick! 
Out of the way, or we will be run over! ! (He rushes forward, 
toward the exit, with both hands raised, as if to ward off the 
coming danger,) Stop! Stop! For God's sake stop! (With 
these exclamations he shelters Mrs. Fairmount, who has fol- 
lowed close behind him— and at the same moment Hanly 
rushes by, almost upsetting the old lady, who disai)pears 
with her husband, and screaming very loud. She has dropped 
her purse in the encounter, and Hanly returns quickly and 
picks it up,) 



— 13 — 

Hanlij. By heavens! it's a full purse! Just what I needed! 
Thaiiks, Mr. horseman ! I was dead broke — and in trying to 
kill the old lady you have saved uie ! (He chuckles.) Well, I 
was honest awhile ago with the girl, and now Tm rewarded 
for it ! (He hides it carefully in his breast pocket.) It's nice 
to have plenty of money! Jack, old boy, you must practice 
economy! Luck like this is not met with every day. The 
old saying ought to be '"Economy is the best policy."— Hello ! 
Here comes a peeler. I think I will make myself scarce. 

Exit. 

Ojficer Dick. (Walking hurriedly.) That was a narrow es- 
cape for the old lady, anyhow— I wish I could catch the 
damned horse breaker! I"d put him in i)asture for six 
months! 

Mr. Fnirmount. (Appears, breathless.) Officer! Did you 
find— a purse— laying around here ? 

Otficer Dick. No, sir. Have you lost your purse ? 

Mr. Fairmunnt. My wife— dropped hers a while ago. (Still 
breathless.) She was— almost— scared— to death ! — 

Officer Dick. By that runaway horse ? 

Mr. Falrmount. (Recovering himself.) Yes, it might have 
terminated more seriously than the loss of the purse. 

Officer Dick. Did you lose much, sir? 

Mr. Fairmomd. A i)Oor man miglit think so. But I would 
give twice as much to have that horseman in limbo, for forty- 
eight hours, or more ! 

Officer Dick. He would get six months, sir, if I had my 
way. If I can find him out, I will make an affidavit against 
him, and let you know, sir! 

Mr. Fairmount. Do so, Officer! You will be properly re- 
warded. (He goes back, and the officer salutes him with 
great deference.) Exit. 

Officer Dick. That's a rich man, I'm sure. Lives near the 
l)ark. (Nodding.) Yes, that's him. He can stand the loss— 
but, I wonder who got the purse ? If I liad been a few min- 
utes sooner I would have been tlie lucky one. Well, I can 
make something out of the affidavit-but not by standing 
here. So, here goes ! Exit. 



— 14 — 

Scene 2. (Folds open.) Aden. A loic groggenj, hept bij a 

man ofrepuMce appearance. A Iddeous look'uKj lad 

is crouch uKj irith fear in ike corner of the 

room. The man is eating. 

CrooJ,f<Jianh:s. Get out of that corner, yer dirty snivellin 
rat. What are yer shakin for ? Yer want yer breakfast, does 
yer? Well, take that, (throws a dry, hard biseuit at him,) 
yer u.iily eur, and let's lu>ar what yer been doin' all the morn- 
in'? 

Sam. (Trembling and eatingthe crumb.) Wharf! 
Crook.shanks. Bin on the wharf, have yer ? What did yer 
j?et ? Speak out, afore I murder yer ! 
.SV^y;. Xothin' ! 

Croohshanks. Nothin' is it? Thar's i)lenty to get, yer 
dirty scoundrel ; but yer gettin' too lazy to pick it up. Come 
back here another day without some bait, and I'll break yer 
bock, yersneakin rat! Get yer buiiketand brush, and scour the 
house from top to bottom, if you want to live another day ! 
Yer had enough to eat, yer hungry dog? (,)uiek ! or I'll 
break every bone in yer body. (He makes a fierce lung<> at 
him, and Sam dodges and runs away.) 

Hanhj. (Appears.) Hello, Ci'ook ! What's ui) now? Pouml- 
ing the cub as usual? (Laughs.) That boy keeps your 
temper up! 

Crookahankii. Dog blast him ! He aint worth his salt! 

Hanltj. That's what the matter. He gets too much salt! 
Don't you think you salt him too much ? 

Crookxhank.^. Yes, and I'll iiei)per him too, afore I'm done 
with him ! What have you to say about it, anyhow ? 

Hanhj. Oidy this :--Did you ever try a square meal with 
the chap ? 

Crook aha nk!<. (Irritably.) Now, Ja(;k! That's enough chin 
music from you. How do yer make a livin'— eh ? 

Hanhj. (Unabashed.) Like a gentleman, sir ! Like a gen- 
tleman ! No work, and big pay ! 

Crook.shank.H. Ltike a gentleman— yes \ (Mockingly.) Where 
did you get that there rig ? How did you get it— eh ? 

Hanly. Well Crook, I had some luck! And as my taihjr 
had the clothes already made for me, all I had to do was to 



— 15 — 

step into them, antZ per;/ for them. (Struts about the floor. ) 
Do you see ? 

Crookshankx. Well, you are a lueky euss, anyhow! (Half 
angrily.) How do yer And the lush V 

Hanly. Easily enough! I have ahra>js money to spare. 
(Displays the purse.) I can get more from where this 
comes. How do you like that ■? (Saucily.) 

Crookslianks. (Enviously.) Yer think yerself a masher; 
don't yer ? 

Hnnly. Well, Crook -don't I look like one ? I made ano- 
ther fine mash not long ago ! (Struts about. I 

("rookshaiiks. Why don't yer help me to something deli- 
cate too ? I've done yer many a good turn. 

Hanly. Why— what in the world would \ioit do with a wo- 
man, Crook? (Apparently amused.) Feed her on crumbs V 
Crookahanki^. To hell wid yer! (Angrily.) If I aint got 
good looks, I've got the lush— and yer know it too ! 

Hanly. Well how much will you give for a pretty girl? 
Now, that's business. 

Crook)i]tanks. (Eagerly.) Name yer price, and I'll pay it. 
Hanly. See here— are you in earnest ? I'm ready to strike 
a bargain with you. 

Crookshanks. Of course I'm in earnest. I'll pay yer well 
for the girl ! 

Hanly. (Looks round cautiously.) Well, Crook— I've got 
just the thing for you. I'll take no pay from you. But I will 
need your help in a little job that will pay us both hand- 
somely. It takes two to carry it through. 

Crookshanks. Yer wants ter put my neck in a halter ; does 
yer ? 

Hanly. No— it's a safe job! And it will produce a rich har- 
vest. Where there's no risk, there's no gain, you know. 

Ci-ookshanks. I'm no slouch. I know that well enough. 
But yer a dare devil. Jack, and yer bound to bite the dust 
some day. (At that moment Sam's head is seen projecting 
from behind the counter, where he has concealed himself in 
the attitude of listener.) 

Hanly. I'll /?ei;er die in a prison. Crook; that's one conso- 
lation. Even if my weapons should fail, I carry a powder on 
my person that will end life without a struggle. No prison 



— 16 — 

bars will ever hold mo. (Lauijhs contentedly.) Come, wliat 
do you say ? Will you give me a hand, or not ? 

Crooki<ha)ikx. (Looks around furtively.) I will join xoii. 
Jack, if yer i)ronii8e to got me the gal. AVithout that, no 
go. 

Hanhj. You are woman-struck. Crook. But I will kcfp 
my word with you. Is it a bargain ? (Offers his hand.) 

Crookshanhs. It's a bargain. iTakes his hand with a shake.) 
When will yer get lier ? When will yer bring her to me V 

Hanlij. That's easy enougii to do. Now listen. The girl 
I mean to turn over to your tender mercy, is a lat(^ acquain- 
tance of mine. Slie's as |)retty as a pink, and I've got a kind 
of hold upon her, which I will of course use to my advantage. 

CrooksJiaiiks. How did yergeta hold ui)on her V 

Hanhj. It's a funny story ; but I will tell it to you. (Sams 
head is seen again.) I did the girl a service by mere chance, 
and that led to an acquaintance. I met her again ; not by 
chance, you can well understand, as far as I was concerned, 
and I gave her my name. From that moment she seemed to 
have taken such an interest in me, that I began tothink she 
mistook me for some-one else. But I was too prudent to ques- 
tion her about it— and she never afterward tried to avoid mc 
but seemed rather well i)lcased always to see me. 

Crooki^hankH. Yer give h(>r yer name, yer say— but not the 
right one, I'll bet! 

Hanhj. You are mistaken ! I did give her the right one. 
What had I to fear from a poor and innocent girl like hci- ? 
She has just been cut loose from her mother's apron strings. 

Croukshcuikn. What aboiit her kin-folks ? 

Ilaithj. She has none. Her mother is her only friend. 

CruuksJianki^. I like that. So much the better— no one to 
interfere. What hold have yer got though ? 

Hanhj. I was coming to that. Aftcrawhilc I got to know 
the girl quite well- -and one day, as I was walking by her side 
for a few minutes, she asked me for my history. By heavens, sir 
—it almost knocked me off my pins (laughs,) and I hated 
to lie to her— but I did -and so well did I do it, that she 
promised me if ever I fell sick, or .got into trouble, she would 
come to me and help me out, if I sent for her. If I aent for 



17 — 

lier -mind that. Do yuu see now, how the thing can be 
worked ? I must use strategy— that's all. 

('rookxhanhs. iQiiickly.) What's that ? 

Haiilij. To use strategy, means to set a trap. Do you un- 
derstand ? When I get her here, how will you keep her ? 1 
will leave the place at once. 

Crooksh((iiks. If she kicks, I'll lock her up— that's all. 

Hanhj. Well, I guess she will be as good as buried alive in 
this house. 

Crook!<liankf<. Yer bet! (Chuckling.) Now tell us about 
yer job. 

Haiilij. Yes-it's about time. There's a fortune in it. 
Now listen. (He looks round again. 8am 's head is seen 
again.) The man who dropped this purse, is the owner of a 
])alace near the park. Old man— old lady— big house— plenty 
of wealth. A regular bonanza. 

Crookshaiilis. A what ? 

Hanhj. Oh, I mean— a big haul! Is that plain enough ? 

CrooksJiaiiks. Well, why don't yer talk English all. the 
time ? 

Hanhj. If it pans out well, I will be rich. (Joyfully.) 

Crook><liaiikii. Don't leave me oitt, please! How about the 
gal -eh V 

Hanhj. Oh, it's settled already, that you are to have her. 

Crookshanhx. But as yer talkin' about goin away, I wants 
it done afore I puts my hands to yer little game. 

Hanhj. By the Gods, sir !— can't you trust me? I will be 
ready to-morrow night, and if you are going to be my man, 
say so, and I will have the girl here the next day. 

Crook.slianks. W^ell, yer needn't get yer dander up, any- 
how. I said I would help yer, and my word is as good as yers. 

Hanhj. All right. Crook! Don't push me too hard, if you 
want the thing to turn out well. I i)romise you it wiU be 
done. Have you got the tools ? 

Crookiihanks. Yes— everything. What's the hour? Where's 
tne place ? 

Hanhj. Meet me to-morrow night, in tlie park, at tl^ 
fountain, when the clock strikes twelve— I will be there. 

(Sam slides back at that moment from behind the counter 
and disappears.) 



- 18 — 

Cronhsltaiiks. All right -I will b(> thero too. Don't sliow 
ui) here again until it's all over. Give me a wiile berth. 

Hanhj. I understand. Now, Crook, it'.s all arrangiMJ. To- 
morrow night, and a fortune is ours. (They shake hands 
again, and Hanly goes towards the door.) 

Crookshaulit;. I'll be on hand. Good luek to yerV (Hanly 
exits.) A devil of a feller he is I But I know I ean trust him. 
Many's the scrape he's been in afore, but he's too sharp to be 
eaught-and I think old Crook ean take eai-e of hisself too. 
(Chuekles.) Where is that dirty rat all this time? (Calls 
Sam in a loud tone. ) Sam ! You Sam ! Where in the tarnation 
are yer ? Sam ai)iteais, looking frightened.) Where have 
yer been sir? What have yer ))een doin, yer snivellin dog ? 
(('atches him by the cnllar and sliakes him.) Are yer asleep, 
yer varmint V 

Sa)ii. Serubbin ! 

Croohsltaiiks. Yer a liar! Yer 1)1 n asleeji, yer lazy dog! 
Where's my whii> V I'll wake yer uj)! (He rushes to the 
counter, and gets a long lasli, and cracks it furiously 
over the boy's Ixvid. Sam falls on his knees and raises his 
hands supplicatingiy. Crookshanks dances around him 
furiously with the wliiii. i Curtain. 



ACT II. 

ScENi; 1. Public Park, arid rleic of the Falrmonnt residence 

in the distance. A fountain in the centre of firounda. The 

hoar is supj»osed to be after sunset. People arepass- 

iii(i throiK/h the park. Kate conies on the ^cene 

and stops. 

Kate. (Looking around nervously.) How late it is getting! 

Everybody is leaving the park, and I will soon be alone. I 

must not tarry here long, lest Mother should grow anxious 

about me. What can Mr. Hanly be wanting with nie ? (She 

walks about, as if undecided what to do.) Tliis is a strangr 

request of his, to meet him here this evening! Oh. if I weie 

only sure he was my lost Ijrother, how gladly would I fly to 

Mother, to tell her I had found her truant boy! But, I fear 



— 19 — 

it caunot be so— it is so lonj; ayo. Perhaps I am doing wrong 
by the eoneealnient of my friendship for tliis man. But I <l(i 
pity lum! He lias told me such a sad story of himself and 
he says he has no other friend on earth, but me! Poor 
man! For the sake of the lost one, I will be kind to him. 
(At this moment Hanly appears.) 

Haniij. I Approaching. ) Ah! Miss Thornhill— how kind of 
you to come! I liop(^ I have not kept you waiting long! 

Kate. It is getting late, sir, and I beg of you to speak fast. 
as 1 cannot stay much longer. 

Hanly. I will not detain you long. Miss Thornhill, lam 
going away, and I wished to take leave of you. You have 
been always so kind to me, that I thought I would appear un- 
grateful to go away without saying good bye. 

Kate. I am sorry you are going, Mr. Hanly— but I sui»i)os(' 
you will better your fortunes by doing so! Perhaps I ma\ 
hear of you again? 

Hanly. Yes— I hope so. I have flattering prospects else- 
where, and I hope to return some day, and find you looking 
as bright and happy as you are now. 

(At this moment Sam's head is seen raising itself from be- 
hind the fountain. He looks on attentively.) 

Kate. Thanks — thanks! I am grateful for your kind 
wishes. Now that you are going away, you will not mind 
my asking you a question. I hoi)e it will not seem imperti- 
nent. 

Hanly. Ask anything you please. I too, wish to ask 
a question. Say on. Miss Thornhill, I will answer you. 

Kate. I wish to know— (Hesitates.) Cannot you think 
whether you have any relatives living ? 

Hanly. I never knew but my father and mother, and— 
they are both— dead ! (Seemingly affected. ) 

Kate. What have yon to ask me, Mr. Hanly V I wish al- 
ways to be your friend. 

Hanly. You once made me a promise. Do you remember 
now what it was ? (He pauses for a reply. She appears puz- 
zled.) I am glad you have not had any occasion to fulfill it — 
but, as it may happen to me— I mean that misfortune may 
overtake me some day, and T will then feel the want of a 
friend. 



— 20 — 

Kate. Oh, I understand you! Yes. I did i)i-oini8e to comt- 
to you if you were overcome by sickness or trouble, and 
needed my friendly services. (Off<-ring her hand. ) Mr. Hanly ! 
God will shield you from harm— trust in Him -He is our 
kind Father! 

Haiihj. I know now you were sincere in what you prom- 
ised to do for me. But, as I leave j'ou so soon— I know I will 
not see you again, for a long time at least— Good bye, Miss 
Thornhill! Farewell, kind friend! 

Kate. Good bye, sir— and God bless you ! (She turns from 
him and darts away.— Exit.) (He remains still on the spot, 
smiles significantly and lights a cigar.) 

Hatihj. It's all right, I think! I played my part well! A 
deuced fine girl she is -too fine for that rascal, Crook. I 
ought to have her myself, by heavens! But, my word is 
given to the fellow, and there is no getting out of it. * * * 
Damn it, I must have money, moneij, money! Tliaf.^ mij lure! 
AVith my pockets full of money, I will yet be able to find 
another Kate Thornhill. iHedisai)pears, and Standish comes 
on the scene, looking liackwards and peering through the 
darkness.) 

Standixh. Could it have; been she V Impossible -I must 
have seen her in spirit only ; or it was, ])erhaps, an opti- 
cal illusion. Surely, Kate must be at home before this? She 
left me an hour ago. (Sam comes out from his concealment 
and creeps up behind the si>eaker. Standish turns around 
suddenly, and Sam scampers off. — Exit.) 

Ah! What monster was that ? Did he intend to do mis- 
chief V Who knows ? He may have wanted to waylay the 
girl, and but for my timely interference, might have done so. 
If that was Kate I saw but a moment ago, she has had a nar- 
row escape, and I must warn her never to pass through this 
lonely park at night. What could she have been doing here 
at this late hour ? (He appears perplexed.) I do not under- 
stand it. '■■ * * She has a secret to tell me, she says— a 
family secret, which she is not, as yet, prepared to divulge. 
What can it be ? It seems to have worried her very much of 
late, and I fear I have done wrong not to insist upon knowing 
it. This world is full of base intrigue, and there cannot be 
too many safeguards placed around a lonely girl. I love her, 
and it is my right and duty to protect her. Ah. Kate, my be- 



•21 - 

loved! Will it ^.oon be my j,'(,>od fortune to eali you wife '? 
Dear girl! Yon are too tender u flower to be dependent on 
self-exertion, and exposed to the vieissitudes of this rude 
life. I will not delay it longer. On my return to the eity-— I 
will not be absent two days at the furthest I will speak- 
to Mrs. Thornliill. I have Kate's i)ermission to do so. 
'■'- * My aunt! How will she receive the announeenient V 
I cannot say. Mr. Fairmount, 1 am sure, will rejoice at my 
determination ; for I have often heard him say he approved 
of early marriages. I am almost tempted, now that I am on 
my way to see them, to speak about it to-night. But no— on 
reflection, I had better defer it until I come back. The hour 
IS late, and I will only have time to say good night and good 
bye to them. (He walks off" in the direction of the Fairmount 
residence and enters.) 

Sam. (Peeps out from the fountain.) T'other one know'd 
her. That one (pcnnting towards Standish) know'd her too. 
(Shakes his head knowingly.) Crook's comin'. (Shakes his 
list at some imaginary person.) I'll li.x^ him. (CTCsticulates 
flercely, as if beating somebody.) He gives menothin' to eat— 
He's not my uncle— he beats me— he makes me steal- he irants 
tokUlmeU (He shivers Avhile talking, and finishes with 
(dioked words.) I's so hungry! V^ xo t'ired. (He hears foot - 
stei)s, and conceals himself (piicdvly again, i 

Haiihj. (Appears.) It's rather too soon for Crook to be 
here, but I reckon he will be on time. I don't mind this job 
to-night, because there is money in it— but— hang it, if I like 
it aljout the girl. lam weakening on that point fast, and I 
wish the thing was over. If he don't show up promptly, I'll 
give the job up, and let the girl go. She looked so good and 
trusting— Hang me, if it aint like tearing my gizzard oat, to 
give her over in that man's power. (He appears excited, i 
Pshaw! What am I talking about? Haven't I got to have 
money? Can I get along without money ? The devil— no! 
I gave my word to do it, and it's got to be done now. Hang 
me for a fool, if I don't go right through with the wdiole busi- 
ness. No girl is going to interfere with my ])rospects, if I 
know myself. What is she to me, anyhow ? Nothing but a 
passing acriuaintance. And why should I have any feelings 
about the matter? (He seats himself, and is smoking.) 1 
never had a sister or a wife — none but a mother ; and she is 



— 22 — 

dead long afto. No one earos for me. I am hated and des- 
pised. (He rises exeitedly. I I must have money, mon<'ij,n\\(\ 
a plenty of it— and there it is, ri<;ht befori' mi\ staring me in 
the face. Yes, I will keep my word with Orook, if he helps 
me to do this thing. I will send her a message to-moa'ow. 
that will place her in my power. Now, for another turn, to 
see that the coast is clear. (He sauntt-rs < iiT leisurely. — Exit, i 
(Sam comes out from his lair.) 

Sam. I's a watchman to-night. (He looks around care- 
fully, and listens attentively.! I'll tix him to-night! (He 
hears footsteps.) He's comin. (Shakes his tist flei'cely. i 
Crook- (^omin — watch him! (He t^onceals himself.) 

CrooksliKukx. (Appears, looking cautiously around.) I'm 
no slouch — but hang me, if I don't take a l<K)k fust, afore 1 
say, go ahead ! (He walks around, and listens for footsteps, i 
No one around-~all right! It looks stormy to-night, but so 
much the better — it makes it safer for us. (Lightning flashes 
must be o»'casionally seen, and a roar of thunder heard, as if 
tlistant at first.) I hoi)e this storm won't liust too sudden 
like. I don't like this lightning! (He looks uncomfortattle, 
and api»ears uneasy.) It will soon be twelve o'clock, and 
Jack will be here. I will wait for him over there, in the shad- 
ow. I'll see him fust, afore he sees me. (He glides off. Exit, i 

Hanlij. (Appears suddenly.) Whafs that? I thought I 
lieard footsteps! Why, in the devil, don't he show upV 
There's twelve striking now. I wonder if he will go back (jn 
me? If he does, I'll smother him in his hole! (Fiercely, i 
This is a tine night for woik, and nothing ought to keep him 
back. (The bell has finished striking, and he li.stens with 
evident impatience. The Hashes of lightning arc more fre- 
quent, and the roar of tliunder louclei-. ("lookshanks ap- 
])ears and gives a signal of warning to Hanly, with his finger! 
and ai)proaches.) 

Crooktihanlc^. Hush! I heard the jieelei's rattle, not far 
from here. Put on your disguise, and wait a bit! (They 
both put on false beards.) 

Hanhj. There's not a particle of danger, with a night like 
this. Everything is in our favor. Turn off tiiat gas -we 
need no light. (Crookshanks puts out the ]iublic light, i 
Have you got the tools ? You know I always earry mine! 
(He displays a pistol, and conceals it iigain.t 



- 2:? 

CrookxJtaiik.<. Yen, I have all that wo need. (He takes out 
a small lantern from his pocket, and lij^hts it.) Here - yer 
take the lantern, and throw tlie lij;ht on, while I piek the 
luck. Are yer ready V No use to Wiiit longer ! 

Hanhj. Yes eoine on ! It's an easy job. and I guess, will be 
a paying one. iThey advance cautiously toward the Fair- 
mount residence. The lightning is flashing steadily. They 
ai)])roach the house, a portion of which is exposed from the 
rear of the stage. They stop to listen, and then are seen as 
if at work like 6'//v//arx. * * * Suddenly, a loud and i>ro- 
longed ivJiMIc is heard from Ham's (piarter in the fountain. 
Tlie burglars scamper away, and run forward. A peal of 
tliunder is heard.) 

Hanly. Eun for your lifel We are betrayed! 

Crookshanks. (fo the other way 1 Don't follow me! 

(They separate, and run in different directions, i Exeunt. 

Sam. (Appears, looking Julnlant.) I's a watchman to- 
night! (He is examining the whistle he l)lew, when sudden- 
ly, he is seized by the neck, and finds himself a i)risoner to 
policeman Dick. He hides the whistle, i 

Officer Dick. Who blew that whistle, you rascal V Wliat 
are you doing here, in such a night V (Shaking Sam.) 

Sam. (Appears very much frighteneil. ) I's a watchman 
to-night ! 

Officer Dick. You are what? A watchman ! Well, that 
takes the cake ! What are you doing here, fool ? 

Sam. (Eagerly.) Look! Look! Look over there ! (Th^. 
officer appears astonished— looks, but sees nothing.) 

Officer Dick. Look at what ? What are you giving us V 
Come now, (jerking him,) and show me what it is! There's 
something in the wind to-night, I'll bet! (Sam is shaking 
with fear, and the officer drags him over in the direction 
pointed out by Sam. ) 

Officer Divk. Hello! What is this? A lantern, by the 
holies! And here's a chisel, on this door step! Aha, 
my boy! You must know something about this. (The>- 
have returned to the front of the stage.) Out with it, or I'll 
make short work of you! Who was over there, trying to 
l)reak into that liouse V 



■24 __ 

Sam. (Sliivi'iinjjf. ) Two! One, lliis \v;i\ : fotlu-r one thai 
way! (Pointing ill opjiositc dirrctiDiis. i 

Offirt'r Did,'. And why (lidn't you run too? 

Sn))i. I's <i watt'hniiin to-iii^lit ! (Lookini; lia|i])y.) 

Officer Dick. Tliat fellow is a dafiied idiol. I Think I lia<l 
better take hiiii in anyhow. If I eateli the thieves, he will 
be able j)eriia|)sto identify them, unle.ss he In- short of nieni- 
ory. Come alon^, old fellow.! (Takes him h\ the eollar. i 
I'm K^ing to >,'ive you quarters for to-night. If it is a prison. 
I guess, from the looks of yoii, yon will liiid them gooci 
enough— better than sleei)ing mit in tiie storm to-night. 
iThoy move along together, Sam apjieaiitig l<\ss frightened. 
The lightningis still Hashing.) ^love along, fast ! [Exeunt. 

-NoTii—ThiH scene iH Mbut oti' li.v (Iniwiii^j; tlie forward folds tou'tlicr. tu pn ]i,ii>- 
for cbanj^e of Hcencry in rear. \ rniulway is ri'i)reseutr(t. 

Ifaiihj. (Apiiears, looking wild and careworn, i Tliis is 
a "luiet plaee. Twill stop here. * * DaiiTii lastnighl's 

storm I It eame near luing the death <>f mi-! 1 wonder if 
any one was bold enough to hound me V .\ niet^ lookin.^; 
hoodlum I am now! (Looking down at himself, all bespai- 
tered with mud.) Well it was the only sure thing to do, lo 
escape capture! We were evidently seen by a i»olieenian, 
but my disguise, I hoi)e, will itrevent identification. Now, the 
surest thing to do, is to go right back, and find out what the 
police know. Yes— and I liave to keep my word with Crook- 
shanks. It is easy enough to have her intercei)ted as she 
leaves her house and if she be made of the stuff I take her 
for, the i)lan is bound to succeed. If Crookslianks gets the 
girl, I'll iiiak(^ him i)ay for a new suit of clothes. I'm not 
going t<j Ije left in the lurch, if I kncnv myself. * * » • 
Whew! iHe shivers, as if <*old.) How cold [am getting! 
That wetting will do me some damage, I am afraid ! When 
I get back to Crook's, if he don't treat me like a gentleman. 
I'll (He goes, shaking his head ominously. i (Exit. 

Scene 2. (The folds open.) Jntcr'ior of u pour roiuigt^, 

Mrs. I'liODihill. (Sitting alone, and sewing. I How strange 

of Kate, to (looking at ai)hoto.l ask to sec this i)ictnrc: 

Even if he were alive, he would not look like this picture 

now! What can be in Kate's mind, to tallc about her bio- 



ther at all ? She knows him not, and he is totally uncon- 
scious that he ever had a sister -a sister that a king might be 
l)roudol'! Yes — my Kate is a noble girl, and I thank (lod 
truly, that he has si tared her to me. How cheerfully she has 
entered upon her life of toil ! And not a complaint— not 
even a single murmur from her, the dear child ; because, 
with her, didij is paramount to all things! Ah me! Why is 
Jack not here, to be a guardian to this lonely girl V She 
needs the protecting care of father or brother— but, alas! 
she has neither. (Looks at the picture, and seems suddenly 
startled.) Heavens! To-daij, twenty years ago, he left his 
home, to become a wanderer! How strange, the sad 
recollection should have come about in this manner! (There 
is a knock at the door, and she (ii)ens it to admit Mr. Scjuires. 
He walks in.) 

HquXrea. Is this the widow Thornhiirs house V (Deferen- 
tially.) 

Mm. Thonihill Yes. sir! 

Squires. Glad to hear it, ma'am! My name isH(iuires! 
Perhaps you have heard of me before ? 

Mrs. Thor)ihill. (With less formality.) Pray, be seated, sir! 
Of course I have heard of yon, through Kate, whom you be- 
friended so much! 

Squires. Don't mention it, ma'am! Your daughter is a 
lovely girl, and I am too glad I was able to be of service to 
her. I suppose, ma'am, she is satisfied with her place ? 

iV/r.s. ThornhiU. Quite so! I have never heard her express 
herself otherwise. 

Squires. Ah, so much the better. (Rubbing his hands.) 

Mrs. Thurnhlll. I have intended, Mr. Squires, to call at 
your office, myself, to thank you for the great service ren- 
dered to us. JJut - 

Squires. Don't mention it, ma'am. I thought I would 
call around myself, to see yon. And how is my little Kate, 
this morning V 

Mrs. Thoruh'dl. Oh, very well, indeed, sir! She has gone 
to work, as usual. 

Squires. Then I have missed her both ways. I stopped at 
the store, before coming here, and she was not there. 

Mrs. Tlurruhill. You were, perhaps, a little early, but she 



— 26 — 

left here at the usual time. I am sure she would have been 
ijflad to see you. Kate has a tfrateful heart, sir! 

Squires. Didn't uicntiou it, uia'ani! You miss licr. no 
doubt, (luring these long hours V 

Mrs ThornhiU. It would not be natural for me to say, I 
did not. As we are alone in the world, we are all to each 
other. 

Squires. To be sure! I understand. You eonld not l)r 
l)arted, under any eonsideration ! 

Mrs. T/iorii/iill. I hoix- thei"e will never be any necessity 
for it. It would kill me, sir, to part with my child. (Mrs. 
ThornhiU rises from her seat, to close the door, which was 
left oi)on.) 

Squires. (Aside.) In that case, I will not mention the sub- 
ject here. (Hitting near the table, he picks up the photo- 
graph, and looks at it. Mrs. ThornhiU has seated herself 
again.) I think I've seen this face before! Who may this 
be, ma'am V 

Mrs. T/iornhill. My son, sir, who has been lost to me for 
many years! You are a friend to us, and I am willing to 
tell you mor(\ This picture, after having lain aside for 
many years, was unexi)ectedly l)rought to light last evening, 
at Kate's reipu'st. She had dreamed of her brother, and 
wished to see his picture. They are only half brother and 
sistei', and have never seen each other. When tliis w;is 
taken, he was, as you see, a mere lad. Kate was yet unborn. 
He left home without a word of farewell, and I have never 
seen or heard of him since. (She wipes away her tears.) 

Squires. He must be deiid. But, I thought for an instant, 
I had seen that face before. We see though, strange like- 
nesses often among strangers. You are blessed, ma'am, in 
having the daughter you have. lam alone in the woiM. I 
take, therefore, an especial interest in her welfare. 

Mrs. ThornhiU. Oh, sir! You are indeed very kind, and I 
thank you for it. 

Squires. Don't mention it, ma'am! (He takes his hat and 
rises to go.) ^Yith your permission, I will call again to see 
you ! 

Mrs. Thurnliill. Do so, Mr. Squires. \Ye are total stran- 
gers here, and I will be glad to have you come again. Good 
morning, sir! (He bows repeatedly, and goes.) Exit S<iuires. 



— 27 — 

What a kind old gentleman he is! I am sure Kate did not 
over-praise him for his kindness of heart! But, why should 
he have called at this hour of the morning ? Perhaps, as he 
takes such an interest iti Kate, he was alarmed at not flnd- 
ing her at the store, and therefore, came here to en(]uire 
about her. But, if he will only persist, he will find her at 
the present moment, and as usual, like a true soldier, at her 
post. Indeed, for punctuality and reliability, none can ex- 
cel her. My Kate is trtily worthy of the interest which not 
only Mr. Squires takes in her, but also of Mr. Standish's favor. 
How rejoiced I am, that my dear girl is making friends, and 
paving the way to better times for us. Ah ! what hardshii.s 
have we not gone through together ? — But, my thoughts must 
not dwell on such matters. This mantle must be delivered 
forthwitiil We have our rent to pay to-morrow, and Kate's 
littlt^ earnings must not be touched, yet awhile. (She has 
bustled jiround, while talking to herself, made up her parcel 
and put on her bonnet, preparatory to going out. Taking up 
the 2)ictiire and looking at it again, she says;) If you had 
lived, and been as good a son as she is a daughter, this earth 
would have been to nie a real paradise. Better though, you 
should be dead, than have proved recreant to your manhood! 
(With a deep sigh, she puts away the picture in the table 
drawer, and goes out with her parcel.) Curtain. 



ACT III. 



FAIllMOrNT MANSION. 



Scene 1. The Fairinunnt couple at home—Exainln'mg a 

large bundle of letten^ on the table in 

drawing room. 

Mri>. Fairmoiint. Loixl bless me! What are you going to 
do with all those letters ? Seems to me, you've robbed the 
Post Office ! , I never saw so many letters ! What are you go- 
ing to do, Dad ? 



— 23 ~ 

FalrniDunt. (Laughing. i It does look like I had robbed 
the Post Office— don't it, honey ? Well, I reckon you'll have 
to help me out of the scrape, won't you V 

Mrs. Fairmount. Indeed, I won't! This is all unneces- 
sary trouble. Mr. Squires told you he would find the girl, 
but you would advertise. Now, you've got your hands full. 

(A servant enters with another large bundle of letters.) 

Good gracious me! More letters! When is this thing going to 
stop? Oh, Dad, Daii ! You've got yourself in a nice mess! 
(He looks disconsolate.) 

Fairmoitnf. Well now— it ceases to be funny! (He sits 
down. ) 

Mrs. FtdrnioKiit. I never saw anything funny in it, at all! 
Where will your eyes be, when you get through -if you ever 
do ? Oh no, Dad ! Jdon't want to go blind, yet awhile. What 
will you do V 

Fuinnonid. I'll hire a secretary. Hang me, if I don't! 

Mra. Fairinonnt. Will one be sufficient V See here ! This 
is only one (juarter of the letters you are going to get. 

Fairmount. The deuce it is ! Why, I never thought a simple 
advertisement like that would bring out so many people at 
once. Can there be so many homeless girls in this city ? I 
am quite anxious now to dive into this correspondence, and 
see who all these people are. 

MvH. Fairmount. Better wail until James comes. He will 
advise us what to do ! 

Fairmount. That's a happy thought! James will l)c here 
to-day, and I will ask him to be my secretary. 

Mrs. Fairmount. Nonsense, Dad! You know James can- 
not spare the time for anything like that. 

Fairmount. I am not so sure of that. Your nephew is 
always very accommodating, and I think this a good oi)por- 
tunity to invite him into our conlidence. Might he not take 
an interest in the. matter. Ah! There's the bell. I 
am sure it is he. I mean to introduce the subject right 
away. Come in, James! We are just talking about you. 
Talk of angels, they say— and they are sure to show up. 
(Takes Standish cordially by the hand.) Indeed, that's so— 
eh? 



— 29 — 

Mrs. Fairmoinit. Dou't mind hiin, Jamcsic. He is full of 
jokes. 

StaiicUsh. (Has advanced and kissed his aunt on the fore- 
head.) All right, Auntie! We cannot be hurt with pleasant 
words. But, laying- all jokes aside, what is this mass of let- 
ters I see before me ? 

Fairmoxnt. I will need a secretary. Don't you think so ? 

Mrs. Falrmount. Do help him out of that scrape! 

Staadish. What scrape is it ? Wliat is it all about ? 

Fairmouiit. Those are - my —correspondents ! 

Mrs. Fair moil lit. And more to hear from! 

Staiidish. (rood heavens! Why have you so many corres- 
pondents V 

Falrmuunt. Oh, I forgot you didn't know anything about 
It. 

Mrs. Falrmount. Well, why don't you tell him ? There's 
nothing to hinder. 

Standish. I am all attention. Is there anything wrong ? 

Falrmount. Oh no — nothing, excei)t as to quantity! 

Standish. I can't say that I am yet enlightened. 

Fairmonnt. Well— it was all brought about by an adver- 
tisement. Read one of them, and you will, doubtless, under- 
stand. (Hands him a letter.) 

Standish. Since I have your permission to do so, (tearing 
open the letter,) I will see what this one contains. * * * 
(Reads aloud.) "In answer to your advertisement, I beg leave 
to offer myself as lady's companion, believing my personal 
appearance, characterand so forth, will prove satisfactory"— 
and so forth. Oh, I see! You have advertised for a young 
lady companion — and these are answers to your advertise- 
ment! 

Fairmonnt. Just so ! What do you propose, Jamesie, to help 
me out ? That's more writing than I'll ever be able to get 
through with. I am dizzy thinking about it. 

Standish. There's nothing to worry about, sir. But if you 
had consulted me a little earlier, I think I could have— (He 
hesitates.) 

Mrs. Falrmount. What, Jamesie? Could you have done it 
some other way? 

Standish. I mean— I could have advised some other and 
easier method. Auntie. Uncle, you ai'e making a mountain 



— ;30 — 

out of a mole! There is no necessity to answer eaeh and 
every one of these hitters. If you liav(- a mind to read them 
all— 

Fairwount. Wliat V Read theiii all? No I (^h lu), sir! 
Not if I know myself! 1 couldn't think of it I 

Mrs. Fairmouiit. Think of something else, Jamesie— Uncle 
couldn't, if he would. 

StcDKli^li. (Amused.) I was not (k)ne siicaking, Auntie. I 
made no such i)roposition. I do not proiiose to make Unele 
do anything. 

Fairmoiiiit. But, something must be done! I am in honor 
bound tt) those peoj>le! I cannot think of letting the thing 
go by default ! 

Standish. I made no sucii pri^position, either. Hear me 
out, please, and you will soon get at my meaning. (The couple 
appear very attentive.) Iji order not to be misunderstood, I 
will use the pronoun, we — 

Fairmoiiid. Ves— don't say ijon again. I wish rather to be 
ignored. 

Standlsli. After the letters ari' read, ice may select one, or 
more, to be answered. It would otherwise be an endless 
task : and besides, there is no moral oldigation imposed on 
any one, to answer letters evoked by an advertisement. 

Falrmoxnt. (Eagerly, i I thinl< you are right, Jamesie ! 
You are a business man. and 1 know I can rely on yovir 
Judgment in the matter. Shall irr begin work at once V 

Standish. I am willing but the result, I fear, will be mere 
guess work. Why did you not ask for photograi)hs from 
your correspon<lents? (Jocularly, i You might have been 
able to start a jiicture gallery. 

Fnirmonnt. I never thought of that ! By George, that's a 
eai)ital idea! It would have been the easiest way of doing the 
thing. -Tust think ! I would have had occupation to last me 
ever so long, and could have become an exjiert physiogno- 
mist. Well, two heads are always better than one, even if 
the other is a sheep head ! (Laughs heartily. 1 

Mm. Fairmo)ivt. Is tlu' matter settled b(4\veen you V 
(Rising to go.) 

Standish. Yes, Auntie— We will try your method first, 
and if it does not succeed, I may have something else to sug- 
gest. Now for work— By the by, Auntie! Any objections 



— SI - 

to my smoking here ? I would enjoy a eigar this morning 
ever so much ! 

Mfs. Fab'moant. To be sure you may! You are at liberty 
to do as you like in this house, Nephew. Mr. Fairmount and 
I jointly wish that you consider this your home. Light your 
cigar, and I will send you some refreshment. (She goes out, 
and Standish lights his cigar.) 

Fairmount. By George— I forgot !~ You need writing ma- 
terials, don't you ? Well, while your aunt, my boy, is look- 
ing up a bottle of wine, I will look up a bottle of ink -eh '? 

Standish. Of course— anything you like. I am subject to 
your orders at present -so make the most c»f it ! (The old 
gentleman has gone out, laughing, while Standish is talk- 
ing.) Yes — I know I am welcome here! But, how thankful 
I would be, if Kate were welcome too ! Here it is — they have 
advertised for a young lady, and I am wishing for a home 
at the same moment for my darling girl. Why not speak to 
them about her V Would I meet with a refusal ? No "? But 
woul 1 they not atribute ii selfish motive to me? I must take 
time to reflect — and to do so, I will advise my aunt to delay 
her choice as long as possible. This chance must not be 
lost for Kate. There is nothing I will not promise them, if 
they will only give her the shelter of this roof. (He walks 
about nervously, while speaking and smoking. ) How can it 
be done ? 

Squires. (Enters unexi>ectedly. I Why, Mr. Standish ! I 
did not expect to find you here. I heard you had gone out of 
town. I called to see Mr. Fairmount on business that may, 
perhaps, interest you ! 

StanOish. I returned this morning. If your business will 
interest me, I am glad to be here ! 

Sqiures- And I am glad to be able to consult you, even be- 
fore si)eaking to Mr. Fairmount. 

Standish. Say on quickly, as he will soon be here. 

Squires. I am requested to find a suitable lady as a com- 
panion for your aunt. 

Standislt. (Startled.) Ah— very well! I am interested 1 

Squires. But you may disapprove, sir. The young lady I 
have in view, is at present under your authority. (Standish 
looks inquiringly.) I refer to Miss Kate Thornhill. 

StandisJt. (Eageidy.) I am rejoiced to hear it, sir! Say on! 



— 32 — 

Squires. (Rubbing his hands.) Thanks! The main diffi- 
culty is now removed ; because, I feared you might raise ob- 
jections. But there is still another difficulty tlie mother! 
She will never })art with her. 

Standish. ^ Reflectively.) I think, even that difficulty may 
be overcome. I will gladly co-operate with you, Mr. 
Squires, in advancing the interest of your friend. 

Squires. Yes, sir! I take a special interest in the young 
lady, and I wish to make her as happy as I can do it. 

Standish. ^Seizes Sijuires by the hand.) Sir! You have 
placed me uuder very great obligations to you. I had the 
same thought in my mind ; to mention Kate's name to my 
aunt, but refrained from d(jing so for certain reasons, which 
were not satisfactory to myself. Your advocacy of her inter- 
est dispels my doubts, and leads on to a consummation de- 
voutly wished for by me. I must not conceal from you, Mr. 
S<iuires, that I too, take mure than a friendly interest in 
y(jur protege. Miss ThornhilTs interest is dearer to me 
than I can tell you ! 

Sijuirea. I am too happy to hear you say so! She has 
now another and better friend than I can ever prove to be. 
There can be no objections to my introducing the subject 
forthwith ? 

Staitdifih. None whatever. I will appear disinterested, 
l)ut if needs be, will come to your assistance. They are com- 
ing. (Mr. Fairmount enters, with a large bottle of ink in 
one hand, and a bundle of stationery in the other.) 

Fairinouiit. Ah, Scpiires — you here? My impatience got 
the better of me, man, and I advertised. Look here, what a 
correspondence I have! (He places the articles on the 
table.) 

Squires. iRubl.)ing his hands. i Oh, what a bother you 
have given yourself. I think I have settled the matter for 
you already. 

Fairmount. How so, my friend '? Why, James, our work 
is, perhai)S, ended. Let's hear what S(piires has to report! 

Standish. I hope we can burn up all this rubbish. Mr. 
Squires, we are eager to hear from you ! (Mrs. Fairmount 
enters at this moment, i Come, Auntie- This is intended 
for you, expressly. Mr. Squires is about to make an an- 



33 — 

nouncoment, wliich particularly interests yon. iMrs. Fair- 
movxnt sits down.) 

Squiren. (Bows to tlic lady.) Yes, niu'ani ! I was about t<'> 
announce the fact, that I had found the young lady for you 

Mrs. Fairmoant. Tall, graceful, and a blonde, perhaps? 
(Mr. Squires nods assent. ) Oh, 1 am si» thankful to you! 
Now sir, see how hasty you were ! (To Mr. Fairmount.) 

Falrmoimt. 80 I was! Sol was! Well, Squires, tell us whd 
she is ? 

SqHiret<. (Rubbing his hands with satisfaction.) A young 
lady, whom I have the honor of calling ;;(;/ protege. Mr. 
Standish knows her well. (The couple look at Standish.) 

StandiHli. Yes, it is true. I am happy to be able to coro- 
borate that statement. The young lady is a particular 
friend of mine also, and, I am sure. Auntie, will satisfy you 
in every respect. Mr. S<iuires has served you well. 

Mrs. Fairmoiiut. Well, if she be a particular friend of 
yours, Jamesie, and a protege of Mr. Squires, that settles 
the matter. Why did you not speak of her before ? 

Standish. For the obvious reason, that I knew nothing of 
what was going on, until to-day. (Servant enters and whis- 
i)ers to Mr. Fairmount.) 

Fairmount. Tell him to come in. tExit servant.) An offi- 
cer of the police wishes to see me. Do you know that two 
nights ago, burglars attempted to get into this house ? 

Squires. Is it possible ? 

Standish. And how were they foiled ? 

Fairmount. (Laughing.) Oh, they were seared away be- 
fore forcing an entrance! It was a terrible stormy night, 
and perhaps the thunder and lightning saved us. However, 
the policeman will enlighten us. (Enter policeman.) Good 
morning, officer! What have you to report? Any clew to 
the robbers ? 

Officer Dick. No, sir! I am sorry to say, I can find no 
traces of the robbers! 

Fairmount. Well, I am not sorry for it, as the poor devils 
got nothing from me. Better drop the case, officer! 

Officer Dick. And what about the boy that's locked up ? 

Fairmount. Yes, yes ! I had forgotten him. Turn him 
loose, officer! It's no use to punish the boy for what he 
knows nothing about. 



- M — 

Officer Dick. Won't yon havo him ooninnttod. as a suspi- 
cious character V 

FairmouiU. By no means! I understood you to say, the 
lad is half-witted ! Well, he deserves some sympathy from 
us. 

StaiaUsh. I would like to investigate that matter. If you 
iiave no objection, officer, I will accompany you back to the 
jail, and see the prisoner. 

Officer Did.. Certainly, sir! You have the right to do so. 

Squire.^. I think Mr. Standish will do well to investigate. 
It often happens that the criminal will confess to one what 
he thinks he is l)ound to conceal from the law officer. 

Office)- Dirk. That's true, sir! But, I don't believe there 
is anything t<> be got out of this prisoner. Some cases are 
right puzzling. There is one reported at headquarters to- 
day, tnat will jiut our detectives on their mettle, I reckon. 

Fairmoinif. AVhat is it, officer V Another burglary? 

Officer J>ick. Worse than that, sir! It's a case of kidnaj)- 
]»ing! 

Fairmoiiiil. What V Right here, in this large city '? It is 
astonishing, what crimes will be committed! What are the 
particulars V Are you allf)wed to tell ? 

Officer Dick. The matter is quiet yet. But, I don't mind 
telling it here. It's a young lady that's kidnapped. (Ser- 
vant enters while the officer is speaking, and speaks in an 
undertone to Mr. Standish, who appears startled.) 

Standish. Excuse me for a moment. I am wanted at the 
door. (He hurries out, followed by the servant.)— Exeunt. 

Fainnoniil. (Laughing mockingly.) A young lady kid- 
napped! Run away, I guess -e/oped .' Is that the word. 
Squires ? 

Squires. It's more likely to be, sir! Investigation will 
prove it to be so. It's a problem to me, how such things can 
happen. (While Squires is uttering the last words, Standish 
returns, acc(unpanied by a lady in deep mourning and 
closely veiled.) 

Standish. (Agitat»>(l.) Uncle, I liave invited this lady in. 
Oh, sir ! She has announced something to me, which, if true, 
will break my heart. How long has she been missing, Mrs. 
Thornhill V !^In V)roken tones.) 

Mrs. Thornhill. (Raises her veil, deei)ly agitated — is about 



35 — 

to reply, when Mr. FairnKuiut, with aa cxclamatkin, rushes 
to her with outstretulied arms.) 

FairmoiDit. Oh Kate, my sister! wToyfully.) Have I 
found you at last V Thank (xod for this! How came yon 
here ! What ails you, Sister? (All present seem astonished 
and mystified.) 

Mrs. Thornhill. (In tears.) Yes, Brother! It is I. Help 
me! (She falls on her knees before Mr. Fairmount.) Help 
me to find my child ! Save her, save her, save her ! 

Mrs. Fairmount. (Approaches the kneeler quickly, and 
raises her up.) I am your brother's wife. Believe me— 
everything will be done to recover your child. I know that 
God will protec^t her. Come, Sister— leave these gentlemen to 
deliberate, and they will soon find means to help you. (Mr. 
and Mrs. Fairmount, place each an arm around the sister, and 
retire.) 

FairmoHut. Yes. Sister! Not a stone will be left unturned. 

Exeunt. 

Standish. (Excitedly.) Come, gentlemen ! There is not a 
moment to lose ! Officer! The lady who is missing is mij 
cousin ! If money will find her, you will have your share of 
it! That boy I must now see! (Placing his hand to his 
brow.) There is a mysterious link in my mind, connecting 
this prisoner with my cousin ! How it is, I cannot explain ! 
I must see the prisoner! I must see the prisoner! (Mr. 
Fairmount has returned hurriedly, i Come, Uncle, to thf 
jail! God save my cousin ! iThey hurry out after him.) 

Curtain. 



ACT iV. 



Scene 1. Prison scene represented. 

Captain. (Speaks to turnkey.) Has Officer Dick returned 
yet from Mr. Fairmounts ? 

Tarnkeij. No, sir! I reckon he can't make anything out 
of the case. Anything about the missing girl. Captain ? 

Capt. No, not yet! It's going to be another difficult cas*- 



— 3« - 

to follow ui>. The rcwHi'd ftffcrcMl is f>ood, Imt whore's the 
elue? 

Turnkf'if. The poor mother is pretty nigli run eruzy ! 

Copt. Yes— it's a hard ease to lose a girl in that way. Even 
if she is found, what a wreek will be left of her! If she 
was njy ehild. I woixld wish her dead ! (Enter Offleer DieU. 
followed by Standish. Mr. Faii'uiomit and Squires.) 

Officer Dick. Captain, these yentleinen hnve eoiiic wit h me 
to see the prisoner I locked ui) here t'otlu'i- niiiht ! 

('(Iff. I have n(j objeetions. Get the prisoner. iTurnkey 
<'.\it.) There isn't mueh to be made out of the lad. sirl 

StididLsli. The attemi)te(l burglary is past our cons id(>ra- 
tion. We eome for another [uirpose. Mr. Fairmounthas no 
desire to i)roseeute the boy, luit I have associated Isiin, in my 
mind, with Hie disa[)pearance of the young lady. I m.iy as 
well tell you, Cciptain, that she is a near relative of mine, and 
we have deterjuined to.lind her. Ocoil ar al'ir ! 

C:iiit. r understand. You tliiiik son may get a clue Ijy 
seeing the j)risoner. I will be only too glad, gentlemen, to 
assist you. I regard this as a most mystei-ious affair. 

Falnnonnl. Yes, it is a dark and mysterious affair, atid if 
money will serve to unravel it, it will be spent liberally. I 
hope, sir, that you will render us all the assistance in your 
power. (Enter turnkey with Saiii. An iron gate is repre- 
sented in the rear of the stage, through which the prisoner 
has issued, and the elaiiging of a heavy chain is heard as the 
gate isoi)ened.) 

Stati'Iisli. Bjy! I have seen you 1), -fore! Where was il V 
(Standish appears confused, and Sam frightened.) Where 
was it I saw this creature ? It is yet fresh in my memory I 
Uncle! I saw him not long ago. lam sure it is within the 
past few days. Let me think! Ah, yes, I have it now. It 
was in the park ! Yes— in the park, the very night 1 thought 
I saw Kate there. It is he! W(! have a clue! (All seem 
interested, and Standish appears agitated. He takes out his 
purse, and offers Sam some silver.) Here is some money for 
you. Take it, and do not be afraid. We will not harm you. 
If you answer my <iuestions I will get you out of here, and 
give you some good clothes. (Sam takes the money, but 
looks as if he would run away.) Now, tell me— Do you know 
me ? Have you ever seen me before V 



Sam. (Looks iiKiuisitively.l Yes 

Slandl><h. (Joyfully.) I thought so! I am right! Whero 
<li(l you see me V Where did von see me V (Sam looks scared.) 
Dou't be seared, boy — I ain your friend! There is some 
more money for you. Now, tell me where you saw meV, 

Sam. (L'xjks around susi)ieiously. I Park 

SfandiiJi. (I'^ageriy. I Did you see any one else there 
that night y Did you see a lady there, just before you saw 
mt' V 

Sam Yes ilu n whisi)er.) 

Standisl(. We are coming to it. Now boy— wlio did slie 
speak to V ^Sam shivers all over, and looks terrified.) Tell 
us! No one will harm you. Was it a man V 

Sam. Y<>s (He begins to whi)nper. i 

Standi^h. iMurh agitated.) I)n you know him V Canyon 
tind liim V 

Sam. (Moves uneasily about. I lic'inrgo! Le'mego! 

Stuiidlsli. Gentlemen, our clue is here! The prisoner is 
laboring under some great fear of this unknown, and it is 
time wastt'd, to dally with him any longer. There is no 
question in m>- mind, that the man who spoke -to her- in 
the park — (he seems choked while speaking the words,) 
knows where she is. The prisoner here knows iiim ; but, if 
<'()erced to si)eak, might lead us astray. What can you 
suggest. Captain ! For God's sake, use your skill here. I 
am almost hojieless. (Standish appears disconsolate. Sits 
down on a bmieh, and buries his face in his hands.) 

Capt. ])o not despair, sir! I am more hopeful than ever. 
I believe, like you, that the prisoner knows the man, but is 
afraid to tell us more. Y(>u were right in your conjecture, 
and your identification of the boy has afforded me a valuable 
l)oint to work upon. My i)lan of action is made up. We 
have nothing more to do, than to trace hitn up to his lair : 
(pointing to Sam,) and if the puzzle is not solved at once, I 
am greatly mistaken. (He gets ready to go out.) 

Stamlislt. (Despaiiingly.) Lose no time, sir. Let no ex- 
])ense or trouble deter you from carrying out your purpose! 
The lady is dearer to me than life— but if any harm has be- 
fallen her, better we should And— her— dead — than alive. I 
will remain here— until I hear from you. (He appears dis- 
consolate.) 



- :i8 — 

Capt. Very well, sir. In less than an huiir, I hope to be 
able to send for you. Oflicer Dick, take <liar.<,'e of the pris- 
oner, and follow me! Exeunt. 

(Standish, Mr. Fairniount and Squires are left with the 
turnkey. Mr. Fairinount and Squires .^o to the iron s'ate 
with the turnkf^y, who opens it for their insi)ection.) 

Standish. (Aside.) Yes, it was she I .saw that nij,dit in 
thei)ark! B.ut, why was she there ? Could it have been a 
voluntary ti^ht ? Oh no, no, no! It cannot be! My Kate is 
too pure, too innocent to have thus fallen. She has been the 
victim of a most foul plot (liercely,) and I do wrong toharboi- 
a single doubtful thought against h(M-. Uncle! (Mr. Fair- 
mount approaches iiim.) You can be of no further use here 
You had better return home, and tell ^Irs. Thornhill what 
we have done. Tell her tlu-re is hope, and that I will not 
give up the chase until our Kate is found ! 

Fairniount. Yes, I will go back to my sister, with yoTir 
words, James, to soothe her bruised iieart ! My fortune is 
offered as a ransom for my niece. How straii.ge it is. Squires. 
that you were about to introduce her to me as a strtinger ! 
Poor girl ! (xod Indp her ! 

Sijuircs. Y'es, I say. God help her, and amen! 

(Mr. Fairniount goes and tiind<ey disappears.) 

Be patient, Mr. Standish! All will turn out well yet! 
That boy's confession lias given us a clue that is bound to 
be fruitful in the i-nd. and Kati-s innocence and virtue will 
surely be her safeguard. 

Standish. The latter part of your speeeli T cannot doubt, if 
l)rutal force has not worked he)- ruin. How tliankful I am 
that I should have gone through the iiaik that night! Enf 
for that circumstance, all would be lost! 

Squires. It was providential! But, even more so tiuit 
you should have seen the boy —and identified iiim here! 

Sfaiidish. Yes, I take it so. 

Sfjnires. But, how came it Mrs. Thornhill sought you at 
her brother's house, unconscious, as she was, of his identity ? 

StandislL By mere chance. She called first at my place 
of business, and was directed to go to my uncle's house, 
without knowing who he was. During my short acquain- 
tance with Kate and her mother, we had not as yet exchanged 



- 39 

our family histories -therefore, we remained, until noAV, in 
]>erfeet Ignoranee of eaeh other's identity. Had you not sent 
Kate to me in the lirst instance, we would have never known 
of this relationship. 

Squires. These are wonderful happenings! Stranger 
things, I do not think, ever happen in this life! 

Officer Dick. (Enters precii)itately.i Hurrah! We are on 
the track! The l)oy is identified, and is well known by the 
iiarbor police ! He inhabits a ])lace— a low groggery— kept 
by a fellow who is now under suspicion by the police. We 
liave surrounded the place to prevent any one escaping. 
The Captain has sent for you. Come on. sir, if you want t<> 
join in thesi)ortI 

Staiuli>ih. (Excitedly.) Yes, by heavens, I will go and be 
the first in the fray! Come on, officer! to the rescue! (He 
rushes wildly out. followed by the officer. Squires look? 
disconsolate.) 

Squires. Well done! He went like a streak of lightning! 
E was not invited to the dance, but dog blast him if I don't 
go too! To the rescue! Exit. 

Note— Folds are quiokly drawn together, to represent a street, and to prepare 
for ehange of seenery in rear. 

(Mrs. Thornhill comes on the scene from one side of the 
stage, and is met by Mr. Squires, coming from the other side 
hurriedly.) 

Squires, (lood gracious. Mrs. Th'.)rnhill! Is it you ? We 
have good news, dear madam. The police are on the track ; 
and I feel certain we will have our Kate with us, in a short 
while. 

Mrs. ThornJiill. (.Apparently very much agitated.) Thank 
God for what yon tell me, sir! 1 could not remain quiet, 
while the search was going on- -and I rushed from my bi'o- 
ther's house, I knew not wliither — 

Squires. Come with me then. We are just in time. I 
know you are brave, and your presence will add fresh energy 
to the efforts of your friends. See ! There they go — I have 
tiot lost sight of them for one moment. We have but to fol- 
low in their ti'acks. (Pointing in a certain direction. They 
• lisappear quickly together.)— Exeunt. 

N oTE- Scene cbangeH. The folds open again. 



40 
Scene "2. Tlu' den. Hauhj ainl('r<i(il,slianh:-< hi (■(inferi'itcc. 

Hanly. Well I've kept my word with yon. Wiuit ure yt.ii 
going to do for uie. now! (He drinks from ;i l)ottle.i 

Crookshaiihs. J)o for yerV 'Tiie devil lake yer anyhow, l'<»r 
yer inii>ei'dence I Haven't yr .ydt Itrcad and meat, and drink 
too? 

Hanlij. Do you eall //<*// pay for llu' |iii>:e I'vr ^iven you V 
Look at my elothcs. Oon't you Ihink I nee(| a new suit V 
(Drinks.) 

CVoo/i".s/(r///A.s-. To iiell with yer and yer <dotlies ! I'm not 
yer tailor ! 

Hanlij. No - but I want some money I Von nuulf- all !»> 
tile bari^ain with me. I've Kot nothing, and 1 mean to hav»" 
.something I 1 mean to be paid for my serviees, and no fool- 
ing about it. Do you hear, Crook ■' (Drinks, i 

Crookt^haiiks. I say ! I want no ipiarrel wit h yei'. Tiiere')* 
trouble enough iiround us here. Ever sinee the (lamned liz- 
zie the other night I've shut tlie [)laee up. and not a ni(dvle 
has come to me. Yer had yer feed all the same, and the devil 
take me if I know what yer mean by sueh talk I Aint yer sat- 
isfied wid yer hiding plaee? 

Hanhj. No! I want to leave the place. I want to cpiit tin- 
town. 

Crookslttdi !•.■<. Well lind yer way out. I've done enough 
for yer. 

Hanly. (Rising from his seat feroeiously.i No you haven't : 
If you don't give me the money I ji.sk for, I'll turn the girl 
loose ! 

(/rookuJiaiiks. No yer won't! Yer <las'nt do it tor the i)oliee. 

Hnr.hj. I say, Crookshanks! I\Iy blood is ui». Don't 
banter me any more, liy heavens, you've got to give nie 
money, or I'll take the girl myself! Do you hear that "? 

Crookshankt^. Yer will not. She's my i)roperty, and afore 
you do that, I'll turn her loose myself, and turn states evi- 
dence besides. Do //er hear that V 

Hanhf. (Takes another long drink— looks at Crookshanks 
ferociously, and examines the doors, to see if they are fast- 
ened.) Will you give me some money, Crook V I will not 
ask it again. (He sits down while speaking, and eoneealed 
by the table, draws a knife with a long blade. \ 



— 41 — 

Ci'oohshankx. Yerdrvink! Go to bed and sleep it off, and 
I'll talk to yerlaterl (C'rookshanks turns his back for a 
moment towards the counter, and Hanly springs upon him 
and drags him to the floor. Placing his knees upon his 
breast, he raises the knife, as if about to strike, clutching 
him also by the throat.) Help — help !— Mercy ! 

Hanhj. Now you vagabond, I've got you where you wanted 
to get me ! You wanted me to go to sleep — for what '? 

Cro()k><)ianks. (Tries to get up, and chokes under Hanly's 
powerful grip. I Help, hel})! (Inaudibly.) Murder! 

Hanhj. Take that, you scoundrel! (He plunges the knife 
into his b(>dy, and holding him down for a moment, loosens 
his grip and rises to his feet, looking down at the murdered 
man. Crookshanks tries to raise himself, and falls with a 
groan. A moment after Hanly wipes the knife on the dead 
man's clothes, and returns it to his pocket.) Now lie, (hie) 
I'll look for booty next — and (hie) for beauty- afterwards- 
(hie.) (Staggering, he opens an inside door and disapiiears.) 

Note — Scene changes. The folds are closed, to enable shifting of scenery in 
rear. A street is represented. Dilapidated front of house. 

Capt. (Speaks to Standish.) This is the house, sir. It ap- 
pears to be securely closed. But, I have it from the inmates 
of the house beyond, that there are people in there. We 
shall first knock for admittance, and if not answered, the 
only remedy left is to force an entrance. 

Standixh. Certainly— Let us proceed at once. iStandish 
knocks, and the Captain knocks. Officer Dick standing near 
them.) 

Capt. There is no answer. Officer Dick, break the lock ! 
(The lock is broken and the door thrown open. They enter. 
A voice is heard— " There has been murder here." Folds 
open— scene changes.) 

Scene 3. Kate alone. In a room, icUh a bed, table and chair. 

Kate. (In tears.) Oh, (lod— why am I kept here ? Why 
am I held a prisoner in this liouse ? What have I done to 
deserve such a fate ? Will no one come to rescue me ? For 
my poor brother's sake, whose name he bore, I trusted him, 
and was beguiled to this place! Oh, why did I not confide 
in my mother, before taking this fatal step V Two days have 



— 42 — 

passed awaj', and have seemed a life-time to me! Oh God 
have pit If on me ! (Having seated herself, she drops her head 
upon the table and is still for a moment. She suddenly 
rises to her feet, and seems like one mad.) Will he try to do 
me harm '? fin a whisper.) It is -(Kate shivers,) for that I 
am shut up, and I -understand! I must not sleep— I cannot 
sleep! (She looks terrified.) I will walk the floor until I fall 
—to rise— no more! (Choking with emotion. I It is wrong to 
wish for death— yes, I know it is sinful— but, (falling on her 
knees, with her back to the door,) my God ! take me (luickly 
from this life-if— they— be— cruel— to me! (She is praying 
silently, with eyes heavenward, when the door is opened 
noiselessly, and Hanly appears. He makes a few steps for- 
ward, and seems afraid of the kneeling figure. Suddenly 
Kate is aroused, and seeing him, is startled.) Oh, sir! Have 
pity on me ! 

Hanlij. I see your food is untasted! Why haven't you 
eaten V (Looking at the bed.) And not slept either! 

Knt(\ Oh, sir! I can neither eat nor sleep, if I am kept 
here! (He makes a step towards her.) Do not touch me, un- 
less you wish to kill me!! Let me go hence ! I have never 
done you harm ! I came here, as I thought, to— I came to 

do an honest a(^t Mr. Hanly. I had a brother once. 

who left his home, never to return. His name was Jack 
Hanly too -I thought you might be him, who is lost to me — 
and I wished to be kind to you! (Prayerfully.) 

Hanlij. (Desperately.) If you were my sister, I would kill 
myself for bringing you here— I have no mother or sister. 
I am alone in the world ! 

Kate. But, you may some day, have a wife— a daughter 
too, who may need protection, as I do now. For her sake, 
save me, and God will bless you in this life! 

Hanly. If I unbar this door and set you free, will you fly 
with me ? (He moves towards her. i 

Kate. (Shrinking back.) Oh, sir, do not ask me that! I 
could not love you as you wish ! My heai-t is given to ano- 
ther! But, I will be your friend, as I have always been! I 
will be your sister, if you will call me so! 

Hanlij. (Impatiently.) That's all folly! I want some- 
thing else ! 



43 - 

Kate. (Depreoatingly.) I will jjjivo you all my earnings, 
nil my savings, if it is money you want ! 

Hanhj. I want n(>ither your money nor your Jewels! I 
want— (He looks at her meaningly.) Will you fly with luo? 

Kate. (Piteously.i Oh, no, no, no! For God's sake, for 
I'ity sake, let me go ! I am a poor, defenceless girl, erying to 
you for mercy — for that mercy which you will expect from 
heaven some day I (Kneeling.) 

HanUj. (Roughly.: Be quiet! (He puts his hand into his 
pocket, and nervously jerks it out, and in doing so drops his 
knife. It falls near Kate. She seizes iiiion it, and rising to 
lier feet, opens the glittering blade) Give me that knife! 

Kate. (Has retreated backward to the wall. Her hair has 
fallen down over her shoulders, and fire darts from her eyes.) 
(Hoarsely.) Never! Keep your distance, sir! If you attempt 
to take it from me, I will plunge it into my heart! I know 1 
cannot fight you— but God has given me this knife as a 
means of escape from your power! You have basely de- 
ceived me, and I icUl defend nDjseJfl! 

Hanhj. (For a moment is amazed. He looks at her hard, 
as if to devine her thoughts. She remains immovable and 
defiant, looking at him fixedly.) (Aside.) Damn it! I be- 
lieve she would! (At that moment, a great noise is 
heard in the house. Hanly springs to the door and fastens 
it. He appears alarmed, and listens— Kate is listening too. 
(Aside.) What can it be ? It sounds like the breaking of a 
door! Have I been tracked to this place? Well— I have 
still a weapon to defend myself. (He takes out his pistol 
from his pocket, i It is well loaded, and will kill ! (With a 
demoniac laugh.) They have discovered the dead man, and 
I will swing!— No ! Never! I will not be taken alive! (At 
that moment, a heavy knock is heard at the door of the 
chamber— and a voice is heard- -" Open the door." — Hanly 
retreats to the opi^osite side of the room, in a corner, and in 
passing Kate, threatens her with his weapon.) If you make 
a noise, I will send a bullet through your head ! (Her eyes 
are fixed upon the door. It is shaken hard, and the voice is 
heard again -" Oi)en the door, or it will be forced in." — 
Kate looks eager. Hanly is defiant, and all is still- Sud- 
<lenly, the door is given a heavy blow, and is thrown open. 
Standish, followed by the Captain, Officer Dick, Squires and 



■il 

Mi's. Thorrihill rush in. Tlip men are staggered at seeing .-( 
I listol levelled iit tlu'iii. The mother looks quickly toward? 
her daughter, and then at Haiily.) 

Mrs. TkoniMU. 'In an agonizing voice.) Oh, God! What 
do I see 'i Kate, my daughter ! < )h, Jaek ! It Ls your sister ! 
(She Tails on her knees, and covers her face with her hands. 
Hanly looks aghast, and lowers his weapon.) 

Kule. (Despairingly.! Mother! T am innocent ! (Turning 
l)esei'chingly towards Standisfi. I Oh, Jaiues! Do you not 
l)elievemeV See! This knife! It woidd have weltered in 
my blood, ere dishonor had overtaken me! (She staggt-rs, 
as if about to swoon, and Staiidish catches her in his arms.i 

StanOifih. Kate! I do believe you! (While holding Kale, 
lu' orders the arrest of Hanly. ) ( )tTicer, do your duty ! (The 
officers make a forward movement -but again are stopped by 
Hanly's pistol.) 

Hdiihj. Stop, where you an- ! and liear me! You are here 1'> 
arrest me, on what charge V 

(\ipl. On the charge of inunh'r, and l<idiiapping ! I dc- 
iiuiml your surrender! There is no (Escape! 

llanhj. \ i»rison life, perliaps the gallows, is to be ni> 
|)ortion! I ir'iU )i<d have it so! Mother— I believed you 
dead ! Slw, I have never known as a sister! I am hated and 
despi.sed, and hunted like a beast! Life has no charms for 
me! To live with shackles on my limbs never again to see 
the light of day ! No ! I will not have it so ! To you, I have 
always been lost; and to the world, I will forever be lost ! 
Mother! Sister! Farewell! Officers! (with a demoniac 
hiugli.) I)u ijoiir dntij ! (Raising the weai)on to his heati. 
he tires, and staggering forward, falls at his mother's feet.) 

Mrs. Thornhill. iScreams.i My son niy son! (Bendinu 
over him. I Lost! I.,ost ! (Tableau. i Curtain. 



